Himachal with Katra Ex Delhi 11D/10N

Sprawled over 12 kms on a crescent shaped ridge lies Shimla, the largest hill station in Himachal Pradesh. From Shimla take an excursion to Kufri where you can enjoy a Poney or Yak ride. Kufri is also famous for its beautiful Himalyan National Park. On the way to Shimla sight the Pinjore Garden and Timber Trail in Parwanoo. Drive to Manali from Shimla. Manali is renowned for its alluring beauty. Take an excursion to the Rohtang Pass where the air seems like glitter as you look down over the herringboned ridges. Drive to Dharamsala from Manali which is also known as "The Little Lhasa in India". It is also the headquaters of His Holiness The Dalai Lama. Head to Dalhouse from Dharamsala a sere place named after the British Governer Lord Dalhousie. Take an excursion to Khajjiar from Dalhousie which is surrounded by thick Deodar trees. Proceed to Katra from Dalhousie and seek the blessing of the glorious Mata Vaishno Devi.

Delhi is well connected with domestic and international flights, to all the major cities within and outside India. Almost all the major airlines have their flights operating from Indira Gandhi International Airport at New Delhi.

By Rail

The railway network connects Delhi to the all major and, nearly, all the minor destinations in India. The three important railway stations of Delhi are New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station.

By Road

Delhi is well connected, by a network of roads and national highways, with all the major cities in India. The three major bus stands in Delhi are Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale-Khan Bus Terminus and Anand Vihar Bus Terminus. Both the government and private transport providers provide frequent bus services. One can also get government as well as private taxis here.

Day 1

Delhi-Shimla (Approx 358Kms/08Hrs)

On arrival at Delhi Airport / Railway Station, you will be greeted by our Holidaymine.com representative who will transfer you to Shimla. On arrival check-in to the hotel. Overnight stay in Shimla.

Meals - Dinner

Day 2

Excursion to Kufri and Shimla Local Sightseeing

Morning after breakfast, proceed for a Day Excursion to Kufri. Kufri is famous for its Himalayan National Park, Poney and Yak Ride and one can see the endless Himalayan Panorama from Kufri. After lunch enjoy sightseeing of various places in and around Shimla such as Shimla mosques built in (1830), Vice Regal Lodge built in (1885), Christ Church built in (1844), The Gaiety Theatre- where the first beauty contest of world was supposed to start (1887), The Grindlays Bank (1912)- the world wide bank started by Robert Melville Grindlay, The Scandal Point and the famous Shopping Plaza of the North 'The Mall'. Overnight stay in Shimla.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3

Shimla-Manali (Approx 265Kms/07Hrs)

Morning post breakfast check-out from the hotel and proceed to Manali. On arrival at Manali, check-in to the hotel. Evening is free for leisure. Overnight stay in Manali.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 4

Manali (Local Sightseeing)

Morning post breakfast proceed for full day Local Sightseeing of Manali. Visit attractions like Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple and Tibetan monastery. Evening is free for shopping at the local market. Overnight stay in Manali.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 5

Excursion to Rohtang Pass (optional)

Morning after breakfast, take an excursion to Rohatang Pass. Situated an altitude of 3979 mtrs above sea level and 51 kms outside Manali is the mighty Rohtang Pass - the gateway to Lahaul-Spiti Valley. It offers a wide panoramic view of the mountains. Here one can see the majesty of the mountains at its height and splendour. At the top of the pass the air seems to glitter against the snow as you look down over herringboned ridges into the Lahaul Valley. Evening is free for leisure. Overnight stay in Manali.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6

Manali-Dharamshala (Approx 260Kms/06Hrs)

Morning after breakfast check-out from the hotel and proceed to Dhramshala. Enroute visit Baijnath known for its Shiva Temple and Palampur famous for it's Tea Gardens. Dharamhsala is a hill-station lying on the spur of the Dhauladhar Mountains about 18 kms north-east of Kangra. It is known for its scenic beauty set amidst high pine and oak trees. Since 1960, when it became the temporary headquarters of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, Dharamshala has risen to international repute as "The Little Lhasa in India". Overnight stay in Dharamshala.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7

Dharamshala-Dalhousie (Approx 120Kms / 2.30Hrs)

After breakfast check-out from the hotel and proceed from Dharamshala to Dalhousie. Enroute local sightseeing of beautiful places which includes his holiness Dalai Lama's residence at Mc Leodgunj, War Memorial, Bhagsunath Temple and Dal Lake. On arrival at Dalhousie, check-in to the hotel. Overnight stay in Dalhousie.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8

Dalhousie (Local sightseeing and Excursion to Khajjiar)

Dalhousie has been named after the British Governor General of the 19th century, Lord Dalhousie. Dalhousie is surrounded by varied vegetation - pines, dodders, oaks and flowering rhododendron. Local Sightseeing of Dalhousie includes visit to Panjipula & Subhash Baoli. Later proceed for Khajjiar excursion. 24 km from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is surrounded by thick Deodar Forest. After the excursion return to Dalhousie. Overnight stay in Dalhousie.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9

Dalhousie-Katra (Approx 186Kms/08Hrs)

Early morning proceed from Dalhousie to Katra. On arrival in Katra, check - in to the hotel. Evening is free for lesiure. Overnight stay in Katra.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 10

Vaishno Devi Darshan

Early morning start your journey from hotel to Mata Vaishno Devi for Darshan. Later return to the hotel. Overnight stay in Katra.

Meals - Breakfast & Dinner

Day 11

Katra-Jammu (Approx 44Kms/01.00Hrs)

Morning after breakfast, check-out from the hotel and proceed from Katra to Jammu. Our Holidaymine.com representative will transfer you to Jammu Airport/Railway Station for departure according to the flight/train timings after an ever memorable holiday in Himachal.

Vehicle and Transportation will be as per itinerary only and not at disposal.

Refund on cancellation depends upon the above cancellation policy.

The Seller Reserves the right to change/modify or terminate the offer any time at its own discretion and without any prior notice.

Supplementary charges will apply for booking falling during Long weekends, Public Holidays and Festival time such as Diwali, Christmas & New Year period.

As per Govt. norm Guests are required to present your photo ID Proof such as PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID or Driving License at the time of Check in at the hotel.

Holidaymine and its suppliers will assist you to the best of their ability with any Query, clarification, changes or customizations – prior to conforming the booking. Your confirmation of this package and included hotels indicate that you have read and understood the following

Itinerary and holiday plan

Holiday Inclusions & Exclusions

Cancellation policy and Terms & Conditions

Agree to the hotels offered and accepted their service quality.

In event of any changes done in Hotels or Room Categories or any Deviation is taken from the confirmed itinerary‚ By the Clients‛; Any expenses incurred from such changes will have to be paid in full by clients directly to local operators / Hotels / activity providers.

Kindly Note :

Himalayan National Park in Kufri and Advance Studies in Shimla, Roerich Art Gallery and State Museum are Closed on Mondays.

Rohatang Pass is closed on Tuesdays for general tourists but the travelers who want to travel to Lahaul, Leh and Spiti can travel even on Tuesdays.

These packages do not include the cost of Rohtang Excursion because Non Himachali Vehicals are not allowed to do Rohtang excursion as per Himachal Govt. Notification.

Shimla - The former summer capital of the British in India, and the present capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties which one can think of. It has got a scenic location, it is surrounded by green hills with snow capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era creates an aura which is very different from other hill stations. Today it is an engaging blend of hill town and holiday resort. Indian vacationers stroll the Mall, while the lower bazaars flow with local life and with shops selling hardware, stationery, fabric and spices.

Kufri - Situated in the Himalayan ranges, Kufri is a picturesque hill station situated 20 km from Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. The salubrious climate and stunning natural beauty makes Kufri a perfect summer getaway. Kufri is also the venue for annual winter sports festival held in February. It is also a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers as the Himalayan Nature Park is situated on the outskirts of the town.

Manali -With super views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal Ranges, and with mountain adventures beckoning from all directions, Manali is a year-round magnet for tourists. It is a popular tourist spot for Indians in summer and a magical, snow-covered place in winter. Manali is also on the road to Ladakh via the valley of Lahaul and Spiti and the Rohtang Pass which is the main attraction near Manali.

Rohtang Pass - Manali is the gateway to Rohtang pass beyond which lie the twin valley of Lahaul and Spiti. In winter the mountain slopes are snow clad and they turn into perfect skiing slopes. This point is one of the main attraction for tourists coming to Manali. The Rohtang pass is 51 KM north of Manali and it is located on Manali Keylong Highway at an altitude of 4111 meters ( 13,400 ft ).

Dharamsala - Dharamsala is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh, famed for its large Tibetan community centred around the activities of the Dalai Lama. It is a city in the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley and is surrounded by dense coniferous forest consisting mainly of stately Deodar cedar trees. It is best known as the home of the Dalai Lama.

Palampur - Known as the 'Tea Capital of North India', Palampur is a beautiful hill station located in Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh. The town of Palampur gets its name from 'Pulum' which means 'abundant water'. The region has innumerable streams and brooks flowing across the region which in turn has been a boon for tea plantations. Boasting of lush green cover consisting of pine forests and tea plantations along with pleasant climate and stunning views of snow clad Dhauladhar ranges, Palampur is an interesting vacation option for summers. The quiet town is also home to some of the tallest deodar trees in the country.

Dalhousie - Dalhousie is a quiet hill station with best suited for people who want to de-stress, who like the quiet, serene atmosphere, and for honeymooners, ideal for long walks picnics and treks. It exudes an old-world charm and was founded by Lord Dalhousie in 1854 because its fresh and peaceful atmosphere and healthy surroundings enchanted him.

Khajjar - Often referred as Mini Switzerland, Khajjiar is a popular hill station located in the Himalayan mountain range about 26 km from Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh. Vast expanse of green meadows and dense forests besides vistas of majestic snow-clad Himalayan peaks make Khajjiar a popular destination with tourists. Khajjiar Lake and Chamera Lake add to the charm of Khajjiar. For its stunning natural beauty, Khajjiar is also referred as Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh.

Katra - Katra is a small town in Reasi district of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir situated in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains, where the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi is located. It is located 42 km from the city of Jammu. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, one of the leading technical universities of India, is also located here.

Shopping And Entertainment

Himachal Pradesh is a state that is known throughout the world for its exquisite natural splendor. People come here, from different corners of the world, to experience nature in its many facets. Where there is sightseeing, shopping is bound to be involved. In fact, you can hardly imagine going back from a vacationing trip, without taking back some souvenirs with you, be it for yourself or your friends and family members. Some of the important shopping hubs in Himachal are as follows:

Shimla - Shopping in Shimla is all about buying the local handicrafts and the main shopping areas in Shimla are along the Mall, the Subzi Mandi, and the Lakkar Bazaar. The Mall road is the place shoppers love to explore, as there are several shops here that offer plethora of choices including woolen products, handicrafts, and handmade artifacts. The Kullu and Kinnauri shawls, mufflers and scarves, Pashmina shawls and the Tibetan carpets are some of the must-buys from Shimla. Apart from shawls, there are Himachali caps, gloves, sweaters and socks, which you may buy from here. Take a trip to the Tibetan Market if you want to buy Tibetan carpets, jewellery that can be purchased from the shops close to the ridge. Apart from this you may also like to buy juices, jams, squashes, pickles and sauces as they are also the best buys here.

Manali - The Mall is the main shopping area in Manali, selling local Kullu and Kinnauri shawls, rugs, caps and footwear, imported goods, besides a range of Tibetan handicraft items. The Tibetan Bazaar and Tibetan Carpet centre run by the refugee community sells thangkas, rugs, local tweeds, Buddhist paintings, bamboo souvenirs, Chinese goods (electronics, shoes, clothes etc), silver and turquoise jewellery and prayers wheels amongst other things. The place is overcrowded with tourists in the summers. If you are interested in buying more hippie and junky stuff, then the Old Manali market is a must visit. The Himachal Handicrafts Emporium and Bhuticco weavers' co-operative in the main Manali Mall are good for local handicrafts. Handcrafted shawls and rugs are the major and the most popular buys here.

Kullu - Shopping in Kullu includes buying Kullu shawls, caps, and gadmas which can be bought from private shops as well as the Himachal state weaving co-operative at Bhutti Weavers colony, six kms south of Kullu. The co-operative runs several retail outlets called Bhuticco at other towns in the valley. The state government handicrafts emporium and Khadi Gramodyog emporium are at Akhara Bazaar.

Dharamsala - Shopping in Dharamsala can be a delightful experience. The main shopping area in Dharamshala is in McLeodganj, offering range of handicraft items including woollens, carpets, metal ware, Thangkas, and jewellery. The main shopping area in Dharamshala is in McLeodganj, offering range of handicraft items including woollens, carpets, metal ware, Thangkas and jewellery. Easily available in almost all the shops in Dharamshala, Thangkas are brightly coloured cloth paintings depicting Buddhist culture, fair and festivals. Kangra Style of paintings depicting the court scenes or the love story between Radha and Krishna of the mythological era, are other must-buy items in Dharamshala. Tourists can visit Norbulingka Institute on Khanyara Road to check out the artwork. Silk and woollen woven scarves, embroidered kurtas are also worth including to your shopping list. Don't forget to add Kangra Valley Green Tea as well to the shopping list.

Dalhousie - Shopping in Dalhousie is all about buying a variety of handicrafts, gift items and trinkets to take back home. The Tibetan market, the Himachal Handloom Industry Emporium, Himachal Hand loom and Crafts Centre and Tibetan Handicrafts Centre are the main shopping areas in Dalhousie. The Tibetan market, located at Gandhi Chowk, is an ideal shopping hub in Dalhousie and one of the popular tourist sites offering spectrum of goods including bags, dolls, handicrafts, carpets and purses. Take a trip to Himachal Handloom Industry Emporium on Thandi Sarak if you are interested in traditional Kashmiri shawls. Reflecting the fine craftsmanship of the locals, these handicrafts are unique and exquisite. You may also buy traditional shawls from here.

Chamba - Shopping in Chamba is about shopping for local crafts. The main market surrounds the central Chaugan where you can buy all sorts of interesting things made of stone and metal - buy some of these as they make good memorabilia. You will also be able to pick up miniature paintings of Chamba and Kangra and the popular Chamba chappals too. Besides these if you are looking for woven shawls try the handicrafts Emporium and don't forget to buy a bottle of the chilli pickle which Chamba is known for.

Money- The currency of India is Indian Rupees (INR). The currency exchange departments are present in almost every Indian city. You can also exchange your currency in 5 star and 4 star hotels, no other currency is valid except for Indian currency (INR).

Best time to Visit- Himachal Pradesh is known for its salubrious climate. The weather is perfect in Himachal Pradesh between the months of April to June when it is mild and sunny and is perfect for mountaineering or enjoying an idyllic nature walk.** **

Travel Kit- Woolen clothes, raingear and sunscreen** **

Language - There are several languages in Himachal Pradesh that are commonly spoken by the people there. Hindi is the official language of the state. Apart from Hindi, people speak different languages including Pahari languages, Punjabi, Kangri, Dogri and Kinnauri.

Drugs- Heavy penalties including imprisonment for possession of narcotic drugs.